Not since Jeff Freeman won the 1999 PGA Professional National Championship at Whistling Straits has a Southern California PGA Professional been crowned a National Champion. Michael Block, of Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club, added his name to the list of champions as he claimed the 47th PGA Professional National Championship on Wednesday, June 25th. In a playoff against Northern Ohio Member Jamie Broce, Block made birdie on the second play-off hole to win the title. Block is the ninth person to win the Walter Hagen Cup on their first try.

“It was great. I wasn’t in any ads or pictures or anything before this event. I came in under the radar. I’m known a little more in my cul-de-sac than I am here. When I got here there was no pressure on me. I had my family and had the support [of the staff at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club] and obviously can’t thank [them] enough. You are the reason why I am here. Thank you!”

Block was in second place coming into the final round at -2 before finishing out the day at even-par to force a play-off. Block shot a four-day total of 286 with rounds of 73, 69, 72 and 72. He will advance to the 96th PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky, in August. In addition, Block will also receive exemptions into six PGA TOUR events within the year and will be a member of the 2015 PGA Cup Team.

The PGA Professional National Championship was played at Dunes Golf & Beach Club and Grande Dunes Resort Club in Myrtle Beach and was presented by Club Car, Mercedes-Benz and Omega Watches. It marks the second visit to South Carolina by The PGA of America’s showcase event for PGA Professionals.